Filipinos are known for having close-knit relationship with their families which I think is an adorable trait because one gets to cherish their time with their family. This trait made a lot of families' bond stronger. Especially during Christmas Season, there are a lot of TV commercials and product endorsements featuring how close filipino families are. It is natural for all of us to give importance to our family because they took care of us when we're younger and help solve our problems even if we're adults already. For some of us it's true that "Family is the only real wealth" and "blood is thicker than water."
But as adorable this trait is, sometimes it still has a disadvantage. Of course I am not generalizing this but for some this may be true. Close-knit family ties sometimes leads to children being dependent to their parents even if the child has his/her own family. Here in the Philippines, it is a common scenario: The parents support their children and their children's children. Whereas in the western countries, if the child turned to an adolescent and is capable of working, they can work. This creates a sense of independence on the child's side. They become more self-reliant and learn how to stand at their own feet.
Another difference between the western culture and the Philippines is that in the Philippines when a child graduated high school and he/she wants to pursue his/her education and go to college, it is still the parent's burden. It is still the parent's responsibility to pay for college tuition and give allowances to their children. But, in the western culture, since the kid is already capable of working, going to college will be a parent and child's joint responsibility. Some doesn't even rely to their parents.
Not that close-family ties are bad, it is actually a good trait but children shouldn't be relying on their parents for everything. They should also know how to be independent because that is what will make them strong and resilient.
Thank you for reading. I hope you like it. Be safe ya'll (:
